The call for sustainable fashion has reached the gym floor, transforming our workout gear. Today, recycled polyester activewear—often derived from plastic bottles—is a staple for eco-conscious fitness enthusiasts. But for high-intensity training (HIT), CrossFit, and long-distance running, the question isn’t just “Is it green?” but “Does it perform?”

The good news is that the reviews are overwhelmingly positive: recycled polyester (or rPET) is not a compromise; it offers the same performance benefits as its virgin counterpart while significantly reducing plastic waste.

The Performance Test: Does rPET Hold Up?

Recycled polyester, like traditional polyester, is a synthetic fiber, giving it an innate advantage in high-sweat activities. Here’s how it performs under pressure:

1. Moisture-Wicking and Quick-Drying

This is the most critical feature for high-intensity workouts. Reviewers consistently note that rPET activewear excels at pulling sweat away from the body to the fabric’s surface, where it evaporates quickly. This is …